The second man, who remained outside throughout the robbery, is described as wearing dark clothing and appeared to have a metallic walking stick.

Detective Constable Lynne Farnworth said: We are appealing for information following a serious knifepoint robbery in Clayton-le-Woods. Fortunately neither of the staff members were hurt but they have been left extremely shaken by this incident.

“I would now urge anyone with any information at all to come forward. We suspect the offenders may have been in the area for some time beforehand, or may have been seen leaving the location on foot.”

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact police on 101 quoting log reference 1488 of November 2nd.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.